Children's dental health 'is getting better'

The dental health of children in the UK is improving, one expert has said.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Foundation (BDF), believes that healthier diets and regular dental care are having a positive impact, but he stated that current levels can improve further.

He noted that two-thirds of children under the age of 12 are found to be free from visible dental decay, while only 31 per cent of five-year-olds are affected by the condition.

"If you look to give your child healthy snacks such as cheese, breadsticks or nuts instead of sweets, their oral health will improve," said Dr Carter.

He added that parents need to watch the drinks they give to their offspring too, with diluted juice, water and milk all being beneficial to dental health.

According to the BDF, scientific studies have demonstrated that those adults who remain fit and healthy are 40 per cent less likely to develop gum infections.